You might wonder how a toilet is relevant to real estate. Real estate is selling or buying properties. But when you really think about it, toilets and their mechanisms are part of the properties. And it is essential to know about them.
Understanding how toilets function without power includes examining different extraordinary types of toilet systems and how each responds to the loss of power.
In an age where we depend on modern conveniences powered by electricity, the question of whether or not you may flush the toilet in a power outage may additionally seem trivial until confronted with the situation.
So let’s get flushing!
The Mechanics of Toilet Systems
Toilets can be extensively categorized into several classes based on their flushing mechanisms:
- Gravity-fed toilets
- Pressure-assisted toilets
- Electric pumps.
The ability to flush during a power outage depends on the type of system in place.
1) Gravity-fed Toilets
These toilets are the most common kind found in homes The one you are using while reading this article on your phone is most likely a gravity-fed toilet. It’s all right! We all take our phones into the restroom. This is not a big secret!
These toilets depend on gravity to flush the waste away. When the toilet handle is pressed to flush, it lifts a valve allowing water from the tank to flow into the toilet bowl. The force of gravity then pushes the waste through the trap (s-trap or p-trap) into the sewer system.
What about electricity?
Gravity-fed toilets do not require electricity to work. It is that simple.
As long as there is water in the tank, these toilets can be flushed manually. If the power outage persists and the water supply is disrupted, additional water can be manually poured into the tank or into the bowl to facilitate flushing.
2) Pressure-assisted Toilets
Pressure-assisted toilets use a combination of water and air pressure to improve the flushing power. These systems have a sealed inner tank that holds water and air. When the flush handle is activated, the compressed air forces the water out with extra pressure in comparison to gravity-fed toilets.
What about electricity?
Pressure-assisted toilets do not rely on electricity for flushing. Again, it is that simple.
These work on similar lines as the gravity-fed toilet. As long as there is water available, these toilets may be flushed. However, if the power outage impacts the water supply, users may additionally need to manually add water to the tank to maintain functionality.
3) Toilets with Electric Pumps
Some modern-day toilets, especially those found in high-rise apartments or houses with unique plumbing configurations, might use electric-powered pumps to help with flushing. These structures often consist of macerating or upflush toilets designed to pump waste to higher or remote sewer systems.
What about electricity?
Toilets that rely on electric pumps can be complex to use at some stage in electricity outages. Without energy, the pump will not function, making it impossible to flush the toilet. In such instances, alternative options such as portable toilets or manual waste disposal may be necessary.
Potential Issues and Solutions
Although gravity-fed and pressure-assisted toilets generally remain functional during electricity outages, several issues can crop up, specifically if the outage is extended.
Can I just say that I am extremely thankful that I have a gravity-fed toilet?! I am endorsing the convenience I have had because of this. Living and working in San Diego has its advantages, but we have had some severe power outages in recent years that lasted days. And the gravity-fed toilet did not cause any issues at all.
Here are some common problems and their solutions:
1) Water Supply Disruption
In many areas, the water supply relies on electric pumps to maintain pressure. During an outage, water pressure may drop, leading to interrupted water supply.
Solution:
- Store more water for flushing functions before an electricity outage happens.
- Use rainwater, pool water, or different non-potable water resources to fill the toilet tank or bowl.
- Consider putting in a backup generator to maintain water pressure if your home is dependent on an electric pump.
2) Septic System Considerations
Homes with septic systems may face additional challenges during power outages. Electric pumps used to move wastewater from the house to the septic tank or drain field will not operate without power.
Solution:
- Limit water usage to prevent overloading the septic system.
- Use a backup generator to strengthen the septic pump if important.
- Have the septic tank pumped before an expected electricity outage to maximize functionality.
Preparing for Power Outages
Proactive preparation can mitigate the impact of electricity outages on the functionality of the toilet. Here are a few steps to make certain you are ready:
1) Emergency Water Supply
Store an adequate supply of water for both drinking and flushing purposes.
2) Backup Power Solutions
Invest in a backup generator to power essential systems, including water pumps and septic pumps. Ensure the generator is well maintained and regularly tested.
3) Alternative Toileting Options
Keep portable toilets, camping toilets, or chemical toilets handy for emergency use. These options can provide a temporary answer till electricity is restored. Although this option is not that favorable.
Flushed Away!
Who would have thought that one day we would need to talk about this too? With advancements in technology and our consistent dependence on power, humans have indeed come a long way. But, problems will always be there.
When it comes to toilets, proactive preparation is essential so the risks and issues can be mitigated as soon as possible. You do not want to be in an “in the wilderness” situation because that is just not possible in the cities owing to hygiene and regulations.
When thinking from the real estate perspective, prospective homebuyers will be more interested in a property that has a fully functioning, effective, and aesthetic toilet system. Nobody wants to deal with the hassle of getting these fixed when buying a home.
So better to be safe than sorry.